adv. and prep. Obs. [f. AFORE + -WARD (defining place or position, as against time).]
A. adv. a. Of order: First of all, first in rank. b. Of place: In front.
1297. R. Glouc., 567. So þat avoreward Þe bissop hii chose of Baþe Water Giffard.
c. 1300. Beket, 492. For ther were furst and Aforeward: the Kyng and his sone.
c. 1380. Sir Ferumb., 3380. Roland was þe furste of alle; þat rod afforeward.
B. prep. [The adv. with defining obj.] In front of.
c. 1380. Sir Ferumb., 3923. Ac furst and afforeward alle Prykede a cosyn of þe Amyralle.
